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The illustration depicts the fraction of collisions versus the collision energy for two of the same gas samples at different temperatures. Choose the statement(s) that accurately describe the illustration.

a. The higher the temperature, the fewer collisions.
b. The illustration shows an inverse relationship between collision energy and collisions.
c. Collision frequency increases with higher temperature.
d. The illustration indicates a constant collision energy.

User Techie
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The accurately described statements about the given illustration are that the collision frequency increases with higher temperature, and higher temperatures lead to a greater fraction of collisions at higher energy levels. The illustration does not suggest a constant collision energy or an inverse relationship between collision energy and the number of collisions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The illustration discussed with regard to the fraction of collisions versus collision energy at different temperatures implies a relationship between kinetic energy, temperature, and collision frequency. Statement (c), 'Collision frequency increases with higher temperature,' is accurate since an increase in temperature results in an increase in the molecules' average kinetic energy, leading to more energetic collisions and a higher collision frequency. This can be seen in the illustration where, at high temperatures, the distribution curve flattens, indicating a wider range of kinetic energies and by implication, more collisions at higher energy levels. Statement (b) implies an 'inverse relationship between collision energy and collisions,' which does not accurately represent the situation. Instead, as temperature increases, not only can collision frequency increase, but there can also be a greater fraction of collisions at higher energy levels. Statement (d), 'The illustration indicates a constant collision energy,' is not accurate since the distribution curve shows a range of kinetic energies, not a single constant energy. Lastly, statement (a), 'The higher the temperature, the fewer collisions,' is incorrect as well, since higher temperatures correspond to more frequent collisions.

User Rory Nolan
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